Prevention

The virus that causes mono (Epstein-Barr virus) is not spread as easily as most people think. If you follow these tips, you can reduce the chance of spreading or catching mono.

• Don't kiss or share dishes or eating utensils with someone who has mono. (A brief kiss on the lips is not likely to spread Epstein-Barr virus. It is spread when saliva from an infected person gets into another person's mouth.)
• Don't donate blood if you have mono. Although it is unusual for the Epstein-Barr virus to be spread through blood, it is possible.